Kazakhstan, the world's largest landlocked country, is a mesmerizing blend of vast steppes, soaring mountains, and rich cultural heritage. From the futuristic skyline of Nur-Sultan to the ancient Silk Road cities of Almaty and Turkestan, this nation offers a unique journey through time and nature. Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Altai Mountains, the serene beauty of the Caspian Sea, and the vibrant traditions of its diverse ethnic groups. With its warm hospitality and a treasure trove of experiences, Kazakhstan is a destination that promises adventure and discovery at every turn.
Kazakhstan experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. For those seeking winter sports, the snowy months from December to February offer excellent skiing opportunities in the mountainous regions. Summer is ideal for exploring the steppes and enjoying outdoor festivals, but be prepared for high temperatures in some areas.
↑ Back to Top| Date | Holiday Name | Description | Fixed Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wed 1 Jan | New Year's Day | Celebration of the new year, marked by festivities and family gatherings. | Yes |
| Tue 7 Jan | Orthodox Christmas | Celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ according to the Orthodox Christian tradition. | Yes |
| Sat 8 Mar | International Women's Day | A day to honor women's achievements and promote gender equality. | Yes |
| Fri 21 Mar | Nauryz Meyrami | Spring equinox celebration, symbolizing renewal and the beginning of the new year in the Kazakh calendar. | Yes |
| Thu 1 May | Kazakhstan People's Unity Day | A day to celebrate the unity of the diverse ethnic groups in Kazakhstan. | Yes |
| Wed 7 May | Defender's Day | A day to honor the military and those who serve in the defense of the country. | Yes |
| Fri 9 May | Victory Day | Commemoration of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. | Yes |
| Sat 28 Jun | Kurman Ait | An Islamic holiday commemorating the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. | No |
| Mon 1 Dec | First President Day | Celebration of the first President of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev. | Yes |
| Tue 16 Dec | Independence Day | Celebration of Kazakhstan's independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. | Yes |
| Date | Holiday Name | Description | Fixed Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thu 1 Jan | New Year's Day | Celebration of the new year, marked by festivities and family gatherings. | Yes |
| Wed 7 Jan | Orthodox Christmas | Celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ according to the Orthodox Christian tradition. | Yes |
| Sun 8 Mar | International Women's Day | A day to honor women's achievements and promote gender equality. | Yes |
| Sat 21 Mar | Nauryz Meyrami | Spring equinox celebration, symbolizing renewal and the beginning of the new year in the Kazakh calendar. | Yes |
| Fri 1 May | Kazakhstan People's Unity Day | A day to celebrate the unity of the diverse ethnic groups in Kazakhstan. | Yes |
| Thu 7 May | Defender's Day | A day to honor the military and those who serve in the defense of the country. | Yes |
| Sat 9 May | Victory Day | Commemoration of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. | Yes |
| Wed 17 Jun | Kurman Ait | An Islamic holiday commemorating the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. | No |
| Tue 1 Dec | First President Day | Celebration of the first President of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev. | Yes |
| Wed 16 Dec | Independence Day | Celebration of Kazakhstan's independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. | Yes |
Hot desert climate with very low rainfall and high temperatures, especially in summer.
Area covered: This climate zone is primarily found in the southern regions of Kazakhstan, including cities like Shymkent and Turkestan. It is characterized by extremely hot summers and mild winters, with very little precipitation throughout the year.
Rainy Season: Minimal rainfall occurs sporadically, mainly in late spring and early summer, but it is generally very low in intensity and duration.
Dry Season: The dry season lasts throughout the year, with the hottest months being June to August.
Snow Season: Snow is rare, but light snowfall can occur in winter months, particularly in December and January.
Cold semi-arid climate with cold winters and warm summers, receiving moderate rainfall.
Area covered: This zone covers much of central Kazakhstan, including cities like Karaganda and Ekibastuz. It features cold winters and warm summers, with moderate precipitation mainly in summer.
Rainy Season: The rainy season occurs mainly in June to August, with moderate rainfall intensity.
Dry Season: The dry season is from September to May, with very little precipitation.
Adverse Weather Season: Severe winter conditions can occur from December to February, with heavy snowstorms and freezing temperatures.
Snow Season: Snow season lasts from November to March, with significant snowfall especially in January and February.
Humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, experiencing significant rainfall.
Area covered: This climate zone is found in the northeastern part of Kazakhstan, including cities like Pavlodar and Ust-Kamenogorsk. It is characterized by hot summers and cold winters, with significant precipitation throughout the year.
Rainy Season: The rainy season occurs mainly in late spring and summer, particularly from May to August, with moderate to heavy rainfall.
Dry Season: The dry season is typically in winter, from December to February, with very little precipitation.
Adverse Weather Season: Severe winter weather can occur from December to February, including heavy snow and blizzards.
Snow Season: Snow season lasts from November to March, with heavy snowfall expected in December and January.
Warm summer humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, experiencing moderate rainfall.
Area covered: This climate zone is found in the western regions of Kazakhstan, including cities like Atyrau and Aktobe. It features warm summers and cold winters, with moderate precipitation throughout the year.
Rainy Season: The rainy season occurs mainly in late spring and summer, particularly from May to August, with moderate rainfall.
Dry Season: The dry season is typically in winter, from December to February, with very little precipitation.
Adverse Weather Season: Severe winter weather can occur from December to February, including heavy snow and blizzards.
Snow Season: Snow season lasts from November to March, with significant snowfall expected in December and January.
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↑ Back to Top| Country | Tourist Visa Required | Visa on Arrival | E-Visa Available | Visa Organized in Advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Canada | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| China | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Egypt | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| France | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Germany | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| India | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Italy | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Japan | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Mexico | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| New Zealand | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Poland | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| South Korea | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Spain | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Turkey | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| United Kingdom | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| United States | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Crime: Kazakhstan has a moderate crime rate, with petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching being common in urban areas, particularly in Almaty and Nur-Sultan. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant, avoid displaying valuables, and use reputable transportation services. Violent crime is less common but can occur, so it's best to stay in well-populated areas and avoid isolated places, especially at night.
Terrorism: The terrorism risk in Kazakhstan is considered low, but there have been isolated incidents in the past. Travelers should remain aware of their surroundings, particularly in public places and during large gatherings. Regions near the borders with Afghanistan and Kyrgyzstan may have a higher risk, and travelers are advised to exercise caution in these areas.
Natural Hazards: Kazakhstan is prone to natural hazards such as earthquakes, particularly in the Almaty region. Travelers should familiarize themselves with earthquake safety procedures. Additionally, severe weather conditions, including heavy snow and ice in winter, can affect travel plans, so it's advisable to check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling.
LGBTQ+ Travelers: LGBTQ+ travelers may face social stigma and discrimination in Kazakhstan, as homosexuality is legal but not widely accepted. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are discouraged. It is advisable for LGBTQ+ travelers to exercise discretion and be aware of local attitudes when traveling in the country.
Solo Travelers: Solo travelers, especially women, should take precautions when traveling in Kazakhstan. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to use reputable transportation options. Engaging with locals can be rewarding, but solo travelers should remain cautious and trust their instincts when meeting new people.
Summary: Travel to Kazakhstan is generally safe, but caution is advised in certain areas.
General Advice: Take normal precautions
| Area | Reason | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Almaty region | Increased crime rates and civil unrest | medium |
| Western Kazakhstan | Potential for social unrest and protests | medium |
Disclaimer: Travel advice might be out of date. Please check the official UK FCDO website for the latest information.
Summary: Kazakhstan is generally safe for travel, but some areas require caution.
General Advice: Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
| Area | Reason | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Almaty | Higher crime rates and potential for civil disturbances | medium |
| Mangystau region | Risk of protests and civil unrest | medium |
Disclaimer: Travel advice might be out of date. Please check the official US Department of State website for the latest information.
Summary: Kazakhstan is a safe destination, but travelers should remain vigilant.
General Advice: Exercise a high degree of caution
| Area | Reason | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Almaty | Increased crime and potential for civil unrest | medium |
| Aktobe region | Risk of social unrest and protests | medium |
Disclaimer: Travel advice might be out of date. Please check the official Canada Advice website for the latest information.
Explore direct flights to Kazakhstan from various international airports. The table below shows which source airports connect to which destinations in Kazakhstan.
Number of major airports served internationally: 1
| Destinations airports in Kazakhstan | |
|---|---|
| International Airport |
ALA |
| DXB | ✓ |
| LHR | ✓ |
| ORD | ✓ |
| CDG | ✓ |
| IST | ✓ |
| AMS | ✓ |
| FRA | ✓ |
